Easy Bake Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy comfort food with a smooth blend of cheddar and mustard flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions for 5 minutes. Drain well.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg and combine with the milk, salt, dry mustard, and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir well.
- Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle with a dash of paprika on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra creaminess, consider adding a tablespoon of butter to the cheese mixture. You can substitute half of the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a more complex flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked macaroni or a different pasta shape like shells. Don't forget that a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors significantly, making it a fun twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or vegetables. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of Delores' Peach Cobbler for dessert, creating a delightful Southern-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Bake Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 569 calories, with 13g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 916mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
Can I freeze the macaroni and cheese?
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly. Cool the dish completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
What can I add to the mac and cheese for more flavor?
You can mix in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition and taste. For a gourmet touch, consider adding truffle oil or breadcrumbs on top before baking to create a crispy crust. Experimenting with different cheeses can also yield delicious results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).